Effortless Gluten Free Dairy Free Smores Parfaits

Irresistible No-Bake Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free S’mores Parfaits: Your Ultimate Summer Dessert

Elevate your summer dessert game with these stunning No-Bake Gluten & Dairy Free S’mores Parfaits. They offer all the beloved flavors of classic s’mores in a sophisticated, easy-to-make package, requiring hardly any effort. Designed to be dairy-free and gluten-free, they effortlessly accommodate a variety of dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge. Each parfait boasts a luscious, fluffy marshmallow center, delightful layers of crumbly graham crackers, and a satisfyingly crisp chocolate shell on top. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, with every layer and texture contributing to an unforgettable experience.

No-Bake Gluten-Free Dairy-Free S'mores Parfaits in elegant glasses

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Why These Dairy-Free S’mores Parfaits Are a Summer Must-Have

As a self-proclaimed “S’mores Queen” (a title proudly earned back in my youth for my unrivaled s’mores consumption skills!), my love for all things s’mores runs deep. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of toasted marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers. However, while traditional campfire s’mores are fun, they can be a bit messy and aren’t always suitable for every occasion. That’s where these No-Bake Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free S’mores Parfaits come in – they are the perfect solution when you want to “pretty up” your s’mores experience without all the fuss.

These parfaits are incredibly easy to make, relying mostly on your microwave and a few simple steps. The result? A truly gorgeous and decadently rich dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but actually comes together in minutes. They are especially wonderful for summer dinner parties or any gathering where you want to offer individual, elegant desserts. Unlike their sticky, gooey counterparts, these parfaits are clean, convenient, and a delightful treat for everyone to enjoy without the mess. They’re impressive yet approachable, making them a staple in my summer entertaining repertoire.

Individual s'mores parfait cups with visible layers

To ensure you achieve perfect results, let’s address some frequently asked questions before diving into the detailed recipe.

Achieving a Gluten-Free S’mores Parfait: Your Guide to GF Graham Crackers

For those, like my family, who require gluten-free options, ensuring this s’mores parfait is truly gluten-free starts with the graham cracker base. This is the foundational crunchy layer that provides that iconic s’mores texture. Fortunately, the market now offers several excellent gluten-free graham cracker alternatives that taste just as good, if not better, than their traditional counterparts. My top three recommendations, based on flavor and texture, are: Schar Honeygrams, Enjoy Life Graham Cookies, and Kinnikinnick Graham Style Crackers. Each of these brands offers a delicious, crisp base that holds up beautifully in a parfait. If gluten isn’t a concern for you or your guests, feel free to use your favorite regular brand of graham crackers. We believe in providing options to suit every need and preference!

Making Your S’mores Parfait Dairy-Free: Essential Ingredient Swaps

Dealing with dairy allergies in our household means I’ve become an expert at finding fantastic dairy-free alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or texture. This s’mores parfait recipe is carefully crafted to be entirely dairy-free, ensuring that those with sensitivities or allergies can enjoy this delightful treat without worry. Here’s a breakdown of the specific dairy-free ingredients I use and recommend:

  • **Vegan Butter:** For the graham cracker crumbs, I swap traditional butter for a high-quality vegan butter. Brands like Miyoko’s Kitchen or Earth Balance work wonderfully, providing the rich flavor and binding properties needed for a perfect crust without any dairy.
  • **Dairy-Free Cream Cheese:** The fluffy marshmallow layer benefits greatly from the tang and richness of cream cheese. My preferred dairy-free cream cheese brands are Tofutti or Go Veggie. If soy is an issue, Daiya offers a fantastic coconut-based cream cheese that’s equally delicious.
  • **Dairy-Free Whipped Topping:** Instead of traditional whipped cream, I use CocoWhip, a delightful coconut-based whipped topping that adds lightness and creaminess to the marshmallow mixture. Remember to thaw it in the refrigerator beforehand for the best consistency.
  • **Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips:** The hard chocolate shell on top requires dairy-free chocolate chips. Enjoy Life chocolate chips are a household favorite, known for their rich flavor and allergen-friendly composition.
  • **Dairy-Free Marshmallows:** While many marshmallows are naturally dairy-free, it’s always good to double-check labels. For a comprehensive list of safe options, you can refer to my guide on which marshmallows are dairy-free. Most major brands like Kraft and generic store brands are usually fine for dairy-free diets, but checking is key!

These specialty ingredients are becoming increasingly available. You can typically find them at health food stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, or Natural Grocer, as well as online retailers like Amazon (links provided above for convenience!). If dairy is not a dietary concern for you, simply use regular butter, conventional cream cheese, and your favorite whipped topping in the same measurements as listed in the recipe.

Close-up of a gluten-free s'mores parfait showing marshmallow and chocolate layers

Are These S’mores Parfaits Vegan? Understanding Marshmallow Choices

Given that this parfait is carefully crafted to be dairy-free and egg-free, one might assume it’s also vegan. However, the key differentiator lies in the marshmallows. Traditional marshmallows contain gelatin, which is an animal product, making them unsuitable for a vegan diet. If you are strictly vegan, you’re welcome to experiment with vegan marshmallows like Dandies. While I haven’t personally tested this specific recipe with vegan marshmallows, their texture and melting properties can sometimes differ from conventional marshmallows, so the final consistency of the marshmallow layer might vary. Otherwise, for those concerned with other allergies, most conventional marshmallows are generally free of common allergens like dairy, eggs, peanuts, and tree nuts. I’ve successfully used both Kraft and various generic brands in our allergy-friendly kitchen without issues, always confirming labels for peace of mind.

An Allergy-Friendly S’mores Parfait for Everyone to Enjoy

Yes, absolutely! Creating inclusive desserts is a passion of mine, especially with a household that navigates multiple food allergies. This s’mores parfait recipe is thoughtfully designed to be remarkably allergy-friendly, making it a safe and delicious choice for many. It is proudly free of several major top 8 allergens, including wheat/gluten, dairy, eggs, peanuts, and tree nuts. My philosophy is to bake to the “lowest common denominator,” meaning I strive to create recipes that accommodate as many dietary needs as possible, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy the same fantastic dessert without feeling left out. This makes these parfaits a wonderful option for parties, potlucks, or simply a family treat where various dietary restrictions are present.

Explore More Allergy-Friendly S’mores Dessert Recipes

Of course, I do! My obsession with s’mores extends far beyond parfaits. They truly are the most heavenly summer dessert, offering endless possibilities for creative twists. If you’re a fellow s’mores enthusiast looking for more gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free ways to enjoy this classic treat, you’re in luck! Here are some of my other popular allergy-friendly s’mores recipes that are sure to delight:

  • Allergy-Friendly S’mores Cookies: A soft, chewy cookie bursting with s’mores flavor, perfect for cookie lovers.
  • S’mores Popcorn: The ultimate movie night snack, combining crunchy popcorn with chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker goodness.
  • S’mores Brownie Bars: Rich, fudgy brownies topped with a gooey marshmallow and chocolate layer.

And for those eager for even more s’mores creations, I’m currently recipe testing some incredible s’mores cupcakes! Be sure to stay tuned and follow my social media channels to catch the latest and greatest allergy-friendly dessert innovations as soon as they’re released.

Beautifully layered allergy-friendly s'mores parfaits

Assembling Your Gluten-Free S’mores Parfaits: Tips for Perfect Layers

One of the best aspects of these parfaits is the freedom you have in their assembly. There’s truly no “official rule,” allowing you to customize them perfectly to your liking and the occasion. You can opt for elegant wine glasses, small shot glasses for mini treats, Mason jars for a rustic touch, or even create a grand, communal s’mores “pie” in a pie plate – the choice is entirely yours!

When it comes to layering, let your preferences guide you. Do you adore a generous, thick layer of crunchy graham cracker crust? Or perhaps you prefer a more subtle base, allowing the creamy marshmallow to shine? Similarly, you can create a super fluffy, deep marshmallow center or a thinner, more balanced layer. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ratios of each component. If you find yourself running low on a particular layer, you can always quickly double that portion or make a bit more to fit your desired serving size and aesthetic. The goal is to have fun with the process and, most importantly, enjoy the delicious outcome!

How to Store Your Allergy-Friendly S’mores Parfaits for Freshness

Once you’ve finished assembling your beautiful allergy-friendly s’mores parfaits, proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and structure. Simply cover them tightly – individually if using glasses, or the entire dish if making a large one – and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve. Chilling them not only keeps them fresh but also allows the layers to set up even further, resulting in a more cohesive and delightful texture. These parfaits can be conveniently stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This makes them an ideal make-ahead dessert, perfect for busy hosts who want to prepare a show-stopping treat in advance of a party or gathering, reducing stress on the day of the event.

Multiple no-bake s'mores parfaits arranged beautifully

See How It’s Done: A Video Guide to Making S’mores Parfaits

For those who are visual learners or simply enjoy watching recipes come to life, I’ve been creating informal videos that walk you through the process of making my recipes. These short, engaging tutorials are a great way to see exactly how each step is executed, ensuring your parfaits turn out perfectly. You can find these videos published on my TikTok channel, as well as saved in my Instagram Story Highlights. They offer quick, real-time insights into the assembly process and often include helpful tips and tricks not always captured in text. Don’t miss out – watching the video can make the entire process even smoother and more enjoyable!

@allergyawesomeness##s’mores ##nobake parfaits that are ##glutenfree & ##dairyfree ##greenscreen ##learnontiktok ##tiktokpartner ##foodallergies ##smores♬ original sound – Megan Lavin
No Bake Gluten & Dairy Free S'mores Parfaits

No Bake Gluten & Dairy Free S’mores Parfaits

Yield:
4-6 parfaits
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes

No Bake Dairy Free S’mores Parfaits look fancy and elevate your summer dessert game without hardly any work. They’re dairy free and gluten free to fit about any diet. With a fluffy marshmallow center, crumbly graham crackers and a hard chocolate shell on top, this is a feast for the eyes and all of the layers and textures are a feast for the mouth. 

Ingredients

CRUST INGREDIENTS:

  • One 5.6oz box of Schar Honeygrams (See post for other options)
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon vegan butter (see post) or coconut oil

MARSHMALLOW INGREDIENTS:

  • One 10-oz package of mini marshmallows (see post)
  • 4 ounces dairy-free cream cheese (see post)
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • One 9oz container of CoCo Whip (thawed in the fridge beforehand)

CHOCOLATE GANACHE INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/2 cup dairy free chocolate chips
  • 1 Tablespoon coconut oil (or other safe shortening)

Instructions

  1. A very important first step is making sure that your CocoWhip (or other whipped topping) is thawed. When I get it from the frozen section at my grocer, it is too frozen to use in this recipe. I find a day in the fridge will make it just the perfect consistency.
  2. In a food processor (or by hand) place the graham crackers, sugar and vegan butter. Pulse until it is crumbly and resembles the texture of sand. Set aside.
  3. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, or a large mixing bowl (and just use regular beaters) place your dairy free cream cheese.
  4. In a greased, deep microwave safe bowl, place your marshmallows. Microwave them for 45-60 seconds. You want them to be puffed and warm. Add them on top of the dairy free cream cheese and mix.
  5. Next add your powdered sugar, vanilla and CocoWhip. Mix until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary with a spatula. Set aside.
  6. In another microwave safe bowl, place your chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave for 30 seconds and then stir. Microwave for another additional 30 seconds if the chips aren’t melted all the way after stirring. Set aside.
  7. Assemble your parfaits. See the post above for details.
  8. Refrigerate your parfaits until you’re ready to serve. They will set up further while they chill. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge, so you can make them ahead of time if desired.

Notes

Adapted from the talented My Baking Addiction’s No Bake S’mores Cheesecake

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 4
Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 790Total Fat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 148mgCarbohydrates: 121gFiber: 14gSugar: 63gProtein: 17g

© Megan Lavin

S'mores Parfaits on display

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Gluten and Dairy Free S'mores Parfaits in two glasses